The organizations, including Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) and the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) are the latest to join discussions about the bill, following parliamentary debate last week. The Government argued that the proposed legislation is designed to establish a single central authority to lead, coordinate and speed up post-hurricane reconstruction efforts, following destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, last October.

Governor Richard Byles will complete his term of appointment on August 18, this year. A Ministry statement says the search will take place in keeping with the principles of transparency and good governance.

Downed trees and debris were used to create blockades. Commuters were reportedly left stranded until police cleared the roadway. This is the third time protestors have blocked the road since last week.

The Sugar Industry Authority (SIA) has directed Pan Caribbean Sugar Company, PCSC to implement immediate corrective measures, including the strengthening of contaminant control systems. This after a preliminary laboratory test identified metal fragments in samples of that brand of sugar purchased at retail outlets.

The pastor of the New Testament Church of God in Montego-Bay, St. James says the church will not use security services, following last week's deadly gun attack. The comment from Bishop Ruel  Robinson follows a suggestion by General Secretary of the Jamaica Council of Churches  Reverend Newton Dixon, that churches that can afford it, should utilize the services of security guards.